Satapuala files petition to remove family

The Satapuala Village Council has proceeded with the removal of the family alleged to own a marijuana farm and the suspects charged in connection to the brutal murder of a 15-year-old boy in Satapuala last week.

The Court receptionist confirmed the petition was filed on Monday by the Village Council.

According to Satapuala Village Mayor, Vaili Mimita, the family in question had been ousted by the Village Council last week.

Vaili told the Samoa Observer the Village Council met on Friday after the discovery of the deceased’s body.

He said they opted to give the family an ultimatum.

“They had to pay a hefty fine of $20,000 by 4pm (Saturday) or the village will demolish (mu le foaga) all their personal belongings,” Vaili said.

“However, with God in mind, there was a change of hearts by the chiefs.

“So we have opted to banish them instead of demolishing what this family owns such as burning their homes and damaging everything on their family land.”

According to the Court receptionist, the petition will be published in the Savali in accordance with the law and a copy would be released to the media thereafter.

Meanwhile, one of the five suspects held over the murder of Uili Uili has been charged with first degree murder.